Easy Pea and Ham Soup
Pea and ham soup is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It's a hearty, comforting soup that's perfect for a cold winter's day or a quick and easy weeknight dinner. The best part about this soup is that it's simple to make and can be ready in just a few short hours. So, let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried green peas
- 6 cups of chicken broth
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 ham hock
- 1 cup diced ham
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Soak the dried green peas in water overnight or for at least 8 hours.
- In a large pot, heat the chicken broth over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf and ham hock. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Drain the soaked peas and add them to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 2 hours, or until the peas are tender.
- Remove the ham hock and let it cool slightly. Remove the meat from the bone and dice it, then return it to the soup.
- Stir in the diced ham and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers, if desired.
This easy pea and ham soup is the perfect comfort food for a chilly day. The combination of tender green peas, savory ham, and aromatic herbs make for a delicious and satisfying meal. And with just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can have a delicious bowl of soup ready in no time. So, whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy meal on a cold day, this pea and ham soup is sure to hit the spot!
